Frequently Asked Questions

You will want to start with heading over to our Product Registration page to register your product. Please note that to register your product for warranty, you must have a copy of your receipt. If you no longer have your receipt, we recommend contacting the retailer you purchased the item from for Proof of Purchase.

Once your product is registered, please fill out a Contact Us form to process a warranty claim with our Customer Support team. That same form should be used for any assistance with a product or grilling issue. Response times for claims are usually 3-5 business days.

Please see our Warranty page to learn about which warranty applies to your product and whether your product is still under warranty.

If you are still under warranty, please make sure your product is registered and then submit a Contact Us form so that customer support can reach out to assist you.

If you are outside of warranty, please see the product sections of this FAQ for troubleshooting and helpful resources to assist you with your unit. Your manual also provides troubleshooting and solutions.

If you are in need of a part for your unit after troubleshooting, please visit the Parts page for our available parts. You can search for a part with your model number by typing your model number into the site search bar. It will bring up the item as well as any relevant parts. More information on finding your model number and searching for specific parts or manuals can be found on the Support Page. If you are not able to locate the part you on our website you can visit popular sites such as appliancefactoryparts.com to check their availability.

To reach our Customer Support team, you will want to start by making sure that your product is registered via our Product Registration form.

Once your product is registered, you will want to then fill out a Contact Us form, which allows you to outline what you need Customer Support's assistance for and open a case within our system. Please note that response times for claims are usually between 3-5 business days.

Please visit our contact us page and complete the support form. Warranty support does require a product registration be completed prior to receiving assistance. To register your product, please visit the product registration page.

All of our parts available for purchase can be found on our website by visiting the Parts page. To search for a part with your model number, type your model number into the site search bar. It will bring up the item as well as any relevant parts. More information on finding your model number and searching for specific parts or manuals can be found on the Support Page. If you are not able to locate the part you on our website you can visit popular sites such as appliancefactoryparts.com to check availability of parts. More information on finding your model number and searching for manuals can be found on the Support Page.

The model and serial number should be located on the back of your Masterbuilt® unit on the manufacturer's label.

We accept returns only on items purchased directly through Masterbuilt® via our website: www.masterbuilt.com. To return a product, please fill out a Contact Us form to where Customer Support can reach out in 3-5 business days to assist with the return process.

Masterbuilt.com ships to the 48 contiguous US states. We are unable to ship to Alaska and Hawaii at this time. If you live in Hawaii or Alaska, feel free to check our Find a Retailer page and check with any of our authorized retailers to see if any ship to your area.

Take a look at our Find a Retailer Page to locate Masterbuilt® authorised retailers in your area.

https://www.masterbuilt.com/blogs/recipes

If the fan or controller in your digital charcoal product isn't working see our Failed Component Identification guide for detailed assistance.

Currently the Rotisserie attachment kit is compatible with the Gravity Series® 1050, 800 and 560.

The Flat Top Griddle is included with the Gravity Series® 800 and is available for purchase as an accessory for the Gravity Series® 1050.

Gravity Series® 560 Assembly Video

Gravity Series® 800 Assembly Video

Gravity Series® 1050 Assembly Video

No, these are meant to peel away without damaging the unit.

Yes, it is very important to preseason your grill before cooking. Pre-seasoning helps to burn off any chemicals and oils left over from the manufacturing process.

1300˚F

Steps to pre-season your grill:
1. Fill the hopper with charcoal approximately ¼ - ½ full.
2. Start your grill following the START-UP instructions and set the temperature to 250°F (121°C) for 60 minutes.
3. Next, set the temperature to 400°F (204°C) for 30 minutes.
4. After 30 minutes, shut down the grill following the SHUTDOWN instructions.
5. Allow grill to cool COMPLETELY.
6. After the grill has cooled, use a napkin or cloth to rub a light coat of cooking oil on smoke and sear grates, warming/smoking racks, charcoal grate and the inside of the grill lid and body.
7. Then, repeat steps 3-6 at a temperature of 350°F (176°C).

*Frequent seasoning helps to prevent rusting. If rusting occurs clean with a steel brush, apply vegetable shortening and heat as indicated above.

Lining your racks or grates with foil is not advised for optimal air flow and cooking results.

No, slides should be removed from the unit while cooking.

A lot of smoke is normal after your charcoal is lit when building a fire. As heat builds, the smoke will change to a thin blue smoke, this means you are ready to cook.

No, fire will bridge upward if the lid is left open.

For On-Demand smoke, add 1-2 chunks (no larger than your fist) directly to the ash bin. This will last approximately 2-3 hours.

For Controlled smoke, add four (4) pounds of charcoal and one (1) wood chunk, creating layers of charcoal and wood chunks.

No, this is not recommended.

No, we do not recommend smoking with any wood chunks larger than the size of a fist. Chunks larger than fist size will create too much heat on the door and cause damage to the unit.

Yes. It's normal for heat to escape when the grill list is open. However, if the temperature is set to anything under 500°F and the lid is opened, the DigitalFan will run continuously to try and maintain the set temperature. If the temperature is set to anything above 500°F and the lid is opened, the grill will default the temperature to 500°F for safety. Once the lid is closed, the grill will return to the set temperature.

Close the all lids. Press and hold the Power button until the grill powers off. The two slides will be used to smother the fire. Put the small slide through the bottom slot and the larger slide through the upper slot. If the slide will not go in fully, it may have slid behind the shroud and was not properly inserted in the sleeve. Pull the slide out, make sure it is parallel to the slot and try again. The “M” should be facing upright.
*Failure to insert slides will cause remaining charcoal to burn and could cause damage to grill.
*Do not store or cover until the grill has completely cooled.

Grill should be covered in a dry area, away from direct sunlight.

For lump charcoal, if the lumps are too big, large voids are created in the hopper. Large lump charcoal reduces the overall amount of charcoal in the hopper to burn. For example: large lump charcoal with voids may only be 7 lbs of charcoal, whereas medium lump with minimal voids may be 10 lbs. 10 lbs will burn longer than 7 lbs. In addition, charcoal varies by brand and not all charcoal is made the same. Material sources, density and characteristics are different. The length of the burn time also depends on the outside temperature.

All Gravity Series® model grills come with a one year warranty from date of purchase with proof of purchase.

See the Error Codes and Troubleshooting Tips PDF

See the Fan Issues and Troubleshooting Tips PDF

If the fan or controller isn't working see our Failed Component Identification guide

No, this was preassembled on the newer models to hold the handles in place for shipping.

The metal inserts in front of fire brick are designed to protect the soft fire brick in transport and production. The metal panels are expected to degrade after use and the firebrick will be exposed. Firebrick material is food safe and capable of handling the high temperatures of the hopper burn area.

Masterbuilt® Lump Charcoal delivers a delicious charcoal flavor for low temperature cooking and it also has the ability to reach high temperatures quickly & consistently.

- 100% premium hardwood

- Naturally sourced and fired in artisan style kilns

- Ideal for Gravity Series® grills and other charcoal cooking products

- Perfect hardwood blend for all temperature ranges and food types

- Clean burn for optimal charcoal flavor and performance

You can buy the charcoal from Walmart or online at Masterbuilt.com

Buy on walmart.com

Buy on Masterbuilt.com

Masterbuilt® Lump Charcoal is a naturally sourced hardwood blend crafted for optimal flavor and performance. It's ideal for Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® products and other charcoal cooking products.

- 100% premium hardwood No fillers or additives

- Easy clean-up Little ash production

- Lights faster Food to the grill faster

- Use for multiple cooks Burns longer for low & slow cooking

- Burns hotter Get a deeper sear

- Better temperature control Responsive to oxygen, better air flow

It will last up to 15 hours in the Gravity Series® 560, up to 12 hours in the Gravity Series® 800, and up to 8 hours in the Gravity Series® 1050 depending on temperature.

We have a variety of different providers across the globe.

We do our very best to provide a high-quality mix of different sized lump charcoal. The size should range from 2-6 inches as to best fit in the Gravity Series® hopper.

Sometimes the handling of bags after they leave our production facility will cause pieces of lump charcoal to break down. However, you should see an assortment of sizes in each bag. Be sure to handle your bag with care when moving and storing. Lump is fragile and has a tendency to break if not handled with care.

We have no plans for flavored charcoal at this time.

It is not, the charcoal is prepared by being fired in artisan style kilns. We do not advise that you use lighter fluid, or anything soaked in lighter fluid in Gravity Series® products.

We recommend using the Masterbuilt® Fire Starters for the easiest way to light your Gravity Series® grill and Masterbuilt® Charcoal.

Buy Fire Starters

The charcoal has an indefinite shelf life if stored properly - bag unopened and in a dry, covered place.

Times will vary; however, we recommend using the Masterbuilt® Fire Starters for the easiest way to light your Masterbuilt® Charcoal.

We recommend storing your charcoal in a dry, covered place.

Remove all oxygen. On your Gravity Series® grill, you will insert the slides into the grill to block the airflow.

Lump charcoal can get to very high temperatures - just like the Gravity Series® grill, you can cook at temperatures up to 700˚F

You sure can! Relighting your charcoal is easy in your Gravity Series® grill if you inserted your slides to conserve it from your previous cook.

Masterbuilt® Fire Starters are the perfect way to light your charcoal grill, making start-up easier than ever and reducing the time needed to reach your desired temperature.

- Ideal for Gravity Series® grills and other charcoal products

- Easiest way to light your charcoal grill and reduce time to temperature

- Odorless, smokeless cubes burn up to 1300˚F

- Fire starters light when wet

- Produced from pure paraffin wax

You can buy the fire starters from Walmart or online at Masterbuilt.com

Buy on walmart.com

Buy on Masterbuilt.com

Pure paraffin wax

48

Our Fire Starters deliver a clean, hot, odorless, and eco-friendly burn without any flare-ups or chemical taste. They are non-toxic and chemical free and each cube will burn up to 1300˚F for 8 to 10 minutes even when wet.

We recommend you use a strip of 2 Fire Starter cubes for each cook - fits perfectly in your Gravity Series®.

No need to use a fire starter in your electric smoker. You simply ignite with the electronic controls.

The fire starters have an indefinite shelf life.

They will burn up to 1300˚F for 8 to 10 minutes even when wet.

40x45x10 (mm); 1.57x1.77x0.39 (in)

They are odorless and flavorless. You will not taste it in your food.

Try a new fire starter.

You can certainly use in your wood burning fireplace or firepit though it might not work as well because charcoal is already-burned wood and you likely have unburned wood in their fireplace.

These fire starters will actually work when wet and still burn up to 1300˚F degrees for 8 to 10 minutes.

It will take around 5-8 minutes depending on the type of charcoal you are using.

Download the Smoking Times and Temperature PDF

You may use dry or pre-soaked wood chips in your smoker. Dry chips will burn faster and produce more intense smoke. Chips pre-soaked in water (for approximately 30 minutes) will burn slower and produce a less intense smoke.

If you would like to use pre-soaked wood chips, visit our YouTube channel and view "A Quick Tip with John McLemore: Soaking Wood Chips"
Video: Wet vs Dry Wood Chips for Smoking

Do not use the smoker in covered areas, including garages or covered porches, or on combustible surfaces. Do not use your smoker within 10 feet of any structure or building. The smoker is for outdoor use only.

Our electric smokers and cold smoker attachment are designed to operate with the use of wood chips only. If you have an MES 400 electric smoker, you can use either wood chips or wood chunks depending on which smoke setting you are using. Wood chunks or wood chips can be used in our Propane Smokers. Food grade wood pellets are to only be used in our pellet smokers and grills.

View our Video "Masterbuilt Electric Smokehouse: Cleaning and Storage"
Video: How to Clean Your Masterbuilt Smoker
When cleaning your smoker, mix 50/50 hot water and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle and shake well. Apply mixture and clean with a soft sponge. It is very important not to use harsh chemicals to clean your smoker.

No, Masterbuilt® smokers cannot be converted to natural gas. Our units are tested and designed to operate on LP gas and our company does not do any testing with natural gas. Therefore, we do not sell a natural gas conversion kit nor recommend the use of natural gas with our products.

If an outdoor extension cord is needed, it must be marked with suffix letters “W-A” and with a tag stating “Suitable for Use with Outdoor Appliances.” Please ensure cords have grounding terminals in working condition. Cord should exceed 16AWG diameter and be no longer than 25 feet in length. NOTE: Cord diameter is measured in AWG (American Wire Gauge) the smaller the number, the larger the diameter.

Video: How to Preseason Your Masterbuilt Electric Smoker
Curing your smoker will rid the unit of oil produced in the manufacturing process. First, make sure the water pan is in place without water in it. Set smoker temperature to 275°F and allow the unit to run for three hours. During the last 45 minutes, add ½ cup of wood chips in the wood chip loader to complete the pre-seasoning process. Power off the smoker and allow it to cool completely. (Note: Never add more than ½ cup of wood chips at a time. Additional chips should not be added until any previously added wood chips have stopped generating smoke.)

Video: Set time and temp with the Masterbuilt App

Curing your smoker will rid the unit of oils produced in the manufacturing process. Pre-season your smoker prior to first use.

Video: How to pre-season your Masterbuilt Propane Smoker

1. Perform soapy water test: Video: How to Perform Soapy Water Test
2. Using a napkin or cloth, rub a light coat of cooking oil on smoker racks and inside smoker door. Make sure water pan is in place WITHOUT water.
3. Fill wood chip tray with up to 1 cup of wood chips and light your smoker. Close door.
4. Let the smoker burn for about 1 hour. Make sure temperature reaches 350°F (177°C).
5. Allow unit to cool completely.
6. Reapply light coat of cooking oil on smoker racks and inside of smoker door.
7. Re-light smoker and burn for 20 minutes.
* Cure your smoker periodically to prevent excessive rust.

To pre-season your slow smoker attachment, place the unit by itself in a safe area, observing the distance requirements as outlined in the “General Warnings & Safety Information” on page 2 of your product manual. Run the slow smoker for 1 hour. This will burn of any residual factory oils on the unit. When complete, the slow smoker is ready for normal operation.

Pellet Smoker is showing ERR0: Body Temperature Probe not seen by controller (check connections of temperature probe. If still an error replace temperature sensor.)

Pellet Smoker is showing ERR1: Meat Probe Error. Meat probe 1 is not installed, or the meat probe is defective.

Pellet Smoker is showing ERR2: Meat Probe Error. Meat probe 2 is not installed, or the meat probe is defective.

Pellet Smoker is showing ERR3: Err3 is when 450°F temp was reached inside the Pellet smoker. This can happen if the crucible has too many pellets in it from the prime process. Once the controller is turned off (not unplugged) the smoker should burn off the pellets in the crucible. The smoker can then be restarted without the prime, which should help with preventing this error.

For an overview of how to set up the app and connect to your device see the Digital Charcoal App Overview

If the fan or controller isn't working see our Failed Component Identification guide

If your Masterbuilt Digital Charcoal Smoker controller is not functioning properly, there is potential that the unit is not wired correctly. Please see the Digital Charcoal Smoker Wiring Diagram page for troubleshooting instructions.

- We recommend peanut oil for its high smoke point and mild flavor
- Canola oil and vegetable oil can also be used
- Do not use olive oil, grapeseed oil, or any oil with a low flashpoint

This air fryer has a 20 quart capacity, which gives it the ability to cook:

- A 20 lb. Turkey
- 50 chicken wings (~10 lbs.)
- Has 4 stacking baskets and a poultry basket (5 baskets total)

- Butterball® 5L Fryer: 1.3 gallons max
- Butterball® Electric Fryer: 2 gallons
- Butterball® XL Electric Fryer: 2.75-3 gallons
- Do not exceed the maximum fill line

Oil takes approximately 30-45 minutes to heat up in the regular size fryer and 40-45 minutes for the XL fryer.

We do not recommend storing your oil in the unit as this will cause build up and will cause the electrical element to burn out.

Allow your oil to cool completely, strain and store in a tightly closed container in a cool dark place for best results.

Watch A Quick Tip with John McLemore: Reusing Oil in the Electric Fryer
Peanut oil can be used 6-8 times if properly maintained and filtered after each use.

Yes, it is highly recommended that you pre-season your fryer. This is to help burn off the oils from the manufacturing process.

Step 1- After assembling, remove the cooking baskets and poultry stand from the fryer. Leave the heat deflector installed in the fryer.

Step 2- Plug in the fryer. Power it on. Set your Air Fryer to “Air Fry” at 200F. Let it run for 30 minutes.

Step 3- After 30 minutes, change the temperature to 300F. Let it run for another 30 minutes at this temperature.

Step 4- Change the temperature to “preset.” Let it run for 30 minutes on Air Fry, Preset.

Step 5- Your pre-seasoning is complete. Power off by pressing the power button. Do not unplug the air fryer, as the fan will continue to run for 5 minutes to cool the fryer down. Once the fan has automatically shut off, you may unplug the air fryer.

Video: How to Steam and Boil with John McLemore
Add water to Max Fill line. Water will boil at 212°F (100°C) but to steam set temperature to 375°F (191°C). This ensures the unit will not cycle off and water will continue to boil and create steam. Never allow water to completely evaporate as this can cause the element to overheat and damage the unit.

Watch Video: How to Prepare and Test Your Masterbuilt Electric Fryer
1. The turkey must be completely thawed and dry: rinse the turkey inside and out with warm water or immerse in warm water for no more than 20 minutes while oil is heating
2. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the inside and outside of the turkey
3. Inject with marinade and/or add dry rub

Watch Video: Butterball Electric Fryer: How to Fry a Turkey

For 8L and 10L fryers, place your turkey breast side up with the legs toward the narrow end of the basket. For 5L fryers, place turkey in the basket, breast side down. Fry your turkey for 3 ½ to 4 minutes per lb. The internal temp should be 165°F in the breast and 180°F in the thigh of the turkey.

Video: How to Fry a Turkey
Turkeys can be injected with marinade and/or a dry rub can be added to the skin.

When your set temperature is reached, the Green "READY" light will illuminate.
- Cooking Oil: 375°F (Max Temp)
- Water: 212°F (Max Temp) - boiling water will not get hotter than 212°F
- Boil/Steam: Set temp to 375°F (water is ready when boiling)

Yes, it operates on a button cell battery

- We do not recommend using an extension cord
- If you must use an extension cord, it must be a heavy-duty cord with a ground
- Use of an extension cord increase risk of entanglement and tripping
- May cause loss of energy and appliance may not heat properly
- Do not operate with damaged cord, plug or after appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner

Make sure no other appliances are plugged into the same outlet or circuit.

Video: How to Clean the Masterbuilt Butterball Electric Fryer
For XL Fryers:
Video: How to Clean the Masterbuilt XL Butterball Electric Fryer
- Pot and lid: dishwasher safe
- Body: use mild soap and water
- Do NOT allow water or cleaning agents to contact the electrical components

No, this appliance is for indoor use only. Do not use outside.

Video: Troubleshooting your Electric Fryer

The control panel features a “Safety Switch” that must be mounted properly on the mounting bracket of the outer shell for the unit to power on. The power light will illuminate when the control panel is mounted correctly.

You may need to reset your fryer.
Resetting the Fryer - Video: How to Reset Your Fryer
1. Allow the unit to cool: 2 hours after using water, 5 hours after using oil
2. Remove the controller from the main body
3. Locate and press the "Reset" button on the rear of the controller with a toothpick

No, this air fryer was designed specifically for outdoor use.

The Outdoor Air Fryer comes with preset temperatures designed specifically for optimum cooking at each function. You can also change the temperature knob to cook at your desired temperature.

Make sure you are using a cook function that can smoke. These cook functions are: air fry, roast, bake, and convection.

Make sure you are using the preset temperature on the temperature knob.

Make sure you put in the woodchips BEFORE preheating the fryer.

It is intentional to have subtle smoke. This is to allow a hint of smoke flavor to your foods.

If your woodchips are completely cold and unburned after a cook longer than 30 minutes, your bottom heating element may be not working.

See the manual for additional questions about assembly, errors and troubleshooting: Outdoor Air Fryer Manual

For an overview of how to set up the app and connect to your device see the Digital Charcoal App Overview

For current version information, hardware requirements, and frequently asked questions see the Masterbuilt® App page

“How To” Videos are available on YouTube

How to Connect

How to Update

Porcelain coated cooking grids can be cleaned with a brass brush. Stainless steel cooking grids should be cleaned with soap and water and a soft cloth.

We suggest a wood fire with a nest of charcoal on top with woodchips set in the middle.

If you are experiencing this issue you may notice that you have a large yellow flame from your burner. If you see this your burner may not be getting enough air. Your flame should be 80% blue and 20% yellow. To adjust the air flow, turn the small metal cap located at the end of your burner tube that is located directly behind your control panel.

Our regulators have a pressure safety mechanism built into them and when the unit experiences this issue it usually means the safety mechanism has been triggered and produces low flow. To reset your safety mechanism, turn the unit OFF and detach your tank from your unit. Allow it to sit detached for 5 full minutes. After 5 minutes reattach your unit to the tank but do not turn the valve on your tank on full. Only turn it a quarter to halfway on and then light your smoker. After your unit is lit you may increase the gas on your tank to full ON.

Our grill covers are made from black canvas with a PVC lining. Smoker covers are made of black vinyl and pressed cotton. Covers are not warranted due to exposure to various weather conditions. We recommend using a cover to protect your product from dust and debris.

Our units cannot be converted to natural gas. Our units are tested and designed to operate on LP gas and our company does not do any testing with natural gas. We do not sell a natural gas conversion kit nor do we recommend the use of natural gas with our products.

Units should be stored in a covered area where they are not subjected to the outdoor elements.

We recommend that you preheat your smoker on HIGH with your wood chops placed close to or directly above the heating element with no water or food in the smoker. Once wood chips begin to smoke adjust the temperature to the desired cooking setting, then add food and water.

Pre-seasoning your smoker will rid the unit of oil produced in the manufacturing process. First, make sure the water pan is in place without water in it. Set smoker temperature to 275°F and allow the unit to run for three hours. During the last 45 minutes, add 1/2 cup of wood chips in the wood chip loader to complete the pre-seasoning process. Power off the smoker and allow it to cool completely.

This depends on personal preference and may require trying a few different flavors to determine what you like best. Three popular choices are Hickory, Mesquite and Apple.

Yes, extension cords can be used so long as they are no more than 10 feet long, are between 12 and 16 gauge, and are graded for outdoor appliance usage.

Our smokers are designed to operate between 200-350°F. If you are in this range your smoker is functioning as it should. These temperatures will vary for each smoking session based on the ambient temperature outside and the amount of food you are smoking.

- Avoid use of an extension cord. If an extension cord is a must make certain it is graded for outdoor appliance usage, not just outdoor usage. If used, extension cords must be 3 prong, 12 to 16 gauge, and no longer than 10 feet.

- Chips can go stale. Stale chips will scorch but will not ash. Chips can be washed in soapy water and dried or replaced. Brand new chips can be stale.

- Open air flow will assist the wood to ignite.

- Use 1 cup of water or less. More than that can over-saturate your chips, raising their ignition temperature.

1. Power on the unit. Make certain the ambient temperature reading is within 10 degrees of the actual outdoor temperature.

2. Model D4015: Press the “Hot Smoke” button.

3. Press temperature. Adjust the temperature by pressing the up arrow over and over. Holding it down can cause a disconnect. Once the desired temperature is reached press temperature again to lock it in.

4. Press the time button. Adjust the hours you require. Press time again. Adjust the minutes required. Adding minutes is always suggested so that step is not missed. Press time again to lock it all in.

5. Model D4015: Press the “Hot Smoke” button again. The heating light should illuminate.

6. If this does not do the trick further troubleshooting is needed. Please contact us.

The Bluetooth feature has been discontinued and usage of the app may cause disconnect between the unit and your phone. For best results, delete the application and use the control panel on the main unit.

Turn your gas on and wait 20 seconds, allowing the gas to build up before striking the ignition button.

High temperatures are normal. The temperature range is 500-755°F.

Some units are specifically manufactured to be used with 1 lb propane bottles. Attaching an aftermarket hose to use a full-size tank will cause the unit to not attain proper gas pressure. Always ensure you are only using the 1 lb propane bottles for those units.

Check the L shaped bar. It should be secured by a 1 inch brass fitting to the top of the sear burner valve.

In the event this is not the case:

1. Remove the sear burner valve as described in your manual

2. Remove the brass fitting from atop the valve

3. Lay the black L shaped tube across the valve, aligning the hole on the top of the valve and in the L tube

4. Reattach the brass fitting over the tube, tightening in place

5. Perform a leak test as described in your manual. If no bubbling is present reinstall valve on unit. Otherwise contact customer service.

No, we do not recommend any aftermarket modifications. Modifications of any kind made to our grills will automatically void the warranty.